Friday, December 3, 2010

Room to Explore

Mormon theology is both rich and unofficial. It should be understood that the thoughts and ideas expressed on this site are not the official declarations of doctrine for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. To look into the official teachings of the Church, please see lds.org or mormon.org. Only the prophet and president of the church may ultimately declare the doctrine of the faith, and this website does not seek to replace or circumvent the role of general authorities in determining doctrine. What place, then, is there for a website of this nature?
On the core teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, all members are in agreement. Namely, that God lives, Jesus is His son, that these two beings joined with the personage of the Holy Ghost constitute an eternal godhead, united in purpose but separate in person, that the Atonement redeems and strengthens mankind, that the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price are inspired scripture, that revelation is open to all men, that Joseph Smith is a Prophet of God, that the priesthood authority of God lies with the modern prophet Thomas S. Monson, and that the sacred and salvific ordinances of the Lord have been again restored to the earth. However, apart from these core beliefs members are allowed a great deal of freedom in discovering and determining truth, particularly while establishing their own beliefs. In short, Mormons may believe an array of things and even disagree with other Mormons while remaining true to their faith. Due to this ability, Mormon theology can change and evolve with advancements in human knowledge without abandoning the core beliefs that persist through its history. It is on these issues apart from core doctrines, or in understanding the meaning, significance, and nature of core beliefs, that this site seeks to explore. As such, it will attempt to promote faith and discussion rather than to ignore the great problems, solutions, and areas of inquiry that Mormon teachings allow us to explore. It also intends to place Mormon belief within a larger theological context, and to compare the philosophical merits of LDS teachings with alternative positions of belief. If this site advances the understanding of the Mormon faith for members or non-believers, it will have satisfied its purpose.